“One pint of blood can save up to three lives,” said Tanya Holloway, emergency services specialist at American Red Cross. “There’s always a need for blood products. And it’s certainly a need that is hard to meet.”

About 5 million people in the United States need blood every year, but only about 3.7 million donate.

Bill Cramer Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC is partnering with American Red Cross to help meet the endless demand for blood with a 27th annual blood drive on Dec. 5.

The drive will be held at the car lot, 2251 W. 23rd St., from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and in generally good health. Donors must present an ID card or American Red Cross donor card.

“It’s important that we make sure we are prepared for the holiday season ahead,” said Cynthia Bridges, account manager at American Red Cross. “The collection goes down, but with the people traveling, the need goes up.”

Last year, local donors gave 207 pints of blood — 31 pints over the goal. This year, the goal is 204 pints of blood.

“Right now we’re requesting all blood types,” Bridges said. “With the holiday season, it’s always a critical time of year for collection.”